Budapest: Top Sights

Budapest was the country of birth of Franz Liszt and Bela Bartok the famous musician and Erno Rubik (who was also a sculptor and professor of architecture) the creator of Rubik Cube.

The best part about Budapest is that the tram are available 24 hours.

Some of the top sights listed in the map from information centre.

Buda Castle and the Matthias Church (also known as church of Our lady)

Chain Bridge - The most famous among the bridges connecting Buda and Pest

Parliament - Grand, massive, stunning

Heroes' Square

St Stephen's Basilica - "The mummified right hand of Hungary first king, St Stephen is kept in the chapel". When I was there I was sent away for restoration. From the picture, I saw that the hand is not in good condition as if its in the process decomposing.  

Andrássy Avenue - Budapest answer to Avenue des Champs-Élysées

Dohany Street synagogue

Margaret Island - You can walk to the island from one of the bridge (Margit Hid). Very lively at night as there are clubs that open till wee hour of the morning.

Szenchenyi Spa and swimming pool - the experience was definitely worth it. 

Gellert Hill and the Citadel

Museum of Fine Arts

Museum of Applied Arts

Palace of Arts

Museum of Ethnography

Memento Park - Statue Park

National Opera House

Other things that I would personally recommend:

Market (near Szabadsag Hid)

On the 2nd floor, there's a stall selling Hungarian cuisine. You have to try at least something, goulash, stuffed cabbage, paprika. 

When you are done eating amuse yourself by trying to open the Secret Box. I had so much fun learning to open the boxes. Boxes come in a few sizes.

The river cruise (this is definitely better than the Seine river cruise in Paris)

What can I say, you get to see of the bridges and landmarks on either side of Buda and Pest up close. The parliament and Buda Castle really stood out. The cruise comes with 2 free drinks and you can also opt for dinner with additional price. 

Some interesting info

Hid means bridge

Kirai means Chinese so you know what is a Kirai shop now.

I think the people in Budapest like to eat salty food.

For more on Hungarian cuisine.